First build need your thoughts and suggestions

[boondocker]

Ok guys I am going to get my first custom done. Have a 700LA. Pretty much set on a 280rem, kreiger (heavy target) and a laminate stock. This will mostly be used for target but occasionally, a hayfield deer hunt. Would like to stay 26 in barrel. Have not decided on a stock yet. probably stay with original triggger for now but may replace down the road. Thoughts, suggestions? Anything I am missing?

 

[DCRYDER]

My first thought is why not go 280 ackley improved? More velocity and better brass life, nosler makes brass ready to go and even makes factory loaded ammo. I'd get a 1-9" twist barrel. As to the stock, depends what finished weight you are looking to end up with. Just with that barrel contour the lightest it will end up with a scope and lighter stock is around 13 lbs.

If weight was a concern I would do a Remington sendero copy.

If not I would go hv and a big laminated 3" long range BR stock.

 

[RonAKA]

I like to start with the bullet and intended purpose. 7mm is great for long distance target shooting beyond 600 yards. If you are not going to shoot paper that far, then it may make some sense to go down to the 6.5mm. Ballistics are almost as good.

Next it makes sense to look at brass, and how to get the good stuff needed to print nice targets - Lapua as a first choice. Unfortunately Lapua does not do a 7mm that I can see. You could neck down the .308 to a 7mm-08, or the 6.5x284 back up to a .284 Win. In the 6.5 the 6.5x284 is probably too overbore unless you are willing to put up with short barrel life. But there is the almost ballistically identical .260 Rem and 6.5x55 Swede in Lapua brass. Since you have a long action I would probably go with the slightly larger capacity Swede.

Just my thoughts,

 

[boondocker]

Yeah have had someone else suggest the ackley. Will that affect barrel life?
Weight is not a concern, the little bit it would be used for hunting would just be a short walk to a field stand with good railings for a rest. I can shoot out to 800 yards or sofor target , farther if I really get ambitious. Can you recommend some good laminate makers?
Also you think I should go with a 28 inch barrel?